James Smith, the Autoharp-Man from Al-la-Bam!, sings Old-Time Traditional songs accompanied by sizzling arrangements on his custom made Morgan-Autoharp that's guaranteed to bring a smile and a toe-tappin' good time. James is known for well crafted interpretations of traditional Irish, Scottish and Welsh folk songs (also gospel, blues and original compositions).   

James is a veteran performer who began singing when he was age seven for a monthly chapel service at Shelby County Penal Farm near Memphis, Tennessee (along with his younger sister). Through the years, he has received training in vocal performance and has sung in musicals as well as choral concerts. During graduate school (1970-72) he played a Martin 12 string at the Coach & Six on Peachtree in Atlanta.  

James is a member of the Huntsville Traditional Music Association and with the help of several members he hosts a HTMA monthly jam at the Constitution Village (local museum/1819 setting).He has recorded five CD projects of Old-time Traditional music: "Come from Alabama", "Uncle Joe", "Plenty of Haulin' to do", "Old Country Church", and "A Wee-Bit of the Irish". He competes in Old-time music festivals and plays concerts, private parties and church home-comings. (Group when needed: James' Gang)  

"Wow what a show!...Keep up the great art!...Thank you for contributing to our tour/visit to Huntsville! ...They loved being a part of your entertainment and your special God given talent!"

Autoharp
The original Autoharp, known sometimes as the chorded Zither, was patented in England before 1883 by J.M. Grob & Karl Gutter, both of Germany. Charles Zimmermann, from Austria, moved to Philadelphia where he developed, manufactured and marketed the instrument in 1885. Mother Mae Bell Carter popularized the Appalachian style of playing standing up.  

Click here for Music Resume